David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Cleveland Cavaliers Get Disheartening Jarrett Allen Update Vs. Boston Celtics Amid ‘Excruciating’ Injury

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Paolo Songco | Last updated 5/7/24

As it is, the Cleveland Cavaliers already have their backs against the wall against the Boston Celtics. To make matters worse for the Cavs, it has been confirmed that starting center Jarrett Allen will not be available to play in Game 1 due to a lingering rib injury.

Based on the latest update, it does not sound like Allen is going to be back on the court anytime soon, either.

Cleveland Cavaliers News: Jarrett Allen Epxeriencing ‘Excruciating’ Pain

We all already know that Allen’s injury isn’t anything insignificant. After all, not only has the former All-Star been forced to sit out Game 1 against the Celtics, but he’s also been sidelined for Games 5 through 7 of Cleveland’s first-round series against the Orlando Magic.

According to Cavs insider Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com, Allen is actually dealing with some serious pain at the moment:

“Even though Allen has been trying to do everything possible to suit up, it’s a pain, safety and effectiveness issue. Sources say he is in ‘excruciating’ pain, having a hard time lifting his arm. Certain movements are more problematic and limiting than others,” Fedor reported.

That does not sound good at all. At this point, the Cavs appear to have no other choice but to make their plans against the Celtics without Allen in the mix.

Fedor also reported on the nature by which Allen sustained the injury in Game 4 against Orlando. The 26-year-old valiantly played through the initial injury, which turned out to be a decision that did not work in his favor:

“Sources tell cleveland.com that Allen actually got hit with an elbow to the area in the series opener. Considered a minor thing initially, the normal wear and tear from taking contact during a physical game, Allen was able to play through it. But he took another sharp elbow to the same spot from Orlando swingman Franz Wagner in the second half of Game 4,” Fedor wrote.

You can’t fault Allen for his heart and his desire to help his team at all costs. At this point, however, he’s going to need to offer his support from the bench.